The Ramgarh dam in Rajasthan, which once served as a primary source of drinking water to Jaipur city, has experienced severe dryness over the past decade. In an attempt to overcome this crisis, plans are being laid to channel water from Chambal River to the dam through the proposed Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project. The Ramgarh dam, a historic structure, was erected during Sawai Madho Singh-II’s regime in 1904 and has once been a prestigious host to rowing events during the 1982 Asian Games.
The Ramgarh Dam – A Retrospect
Built in the year 1904 during the reign of the erstwhile ruler of Jaipur, Sawai Madho Singh-II, the Ramgarh dam held significant importance to the city of Jaipur primarily in terms of fresh water supply. Its lake had been the venue for rowing events at the 1982 Asian Games, earning it fame and recognition. However, in the course of years, the dam has dried up completely leading to a major concern in the water supply.
Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project – A Potential Solution
As an antidote to the drying Ramgarh Dam, the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project is suggested. The project envisages rerouting water from one of India’s cleanest rivers, Chambal River, to the dam. The aim is to restore the dam’s capability to once again provide water to the city of Jaipur.
About Chambal River
The Chambal River, known for its purity and length of 960 km, springs from the Singar Chouri peak located on the northern slopes of the Vindhya mountains of Indore, Madhya Pradesh. It flows northwards in Madhya Pradesh, covering about 346 km before heading northeast for approximately 225 km through Rajasthan. It then enters Uttar Pradesh and flows for about 32 km before merging with the Yamuna River in Etawah District.
The Chambal River, known as a rain-fed river, is encompassed by the Vindhyan mountain ranges and the Aravallis. Its tributaries, Banas, Kali Sindh, and Parbati, contribute to draining the Malwa region of northwestern Madhya Pradesh.
| Power Projects/Dam | Location |
|---|---|
| Gandhi Sagar Dam | Madhya Pradesh |
| Rana Pratap Sagar Dam | Rajasthan |
| Jawahar Sagar Dam | Rajasthan |
| Kota Barrage | Rajasthan |
The National Chambal Sanctuary – A Unique Ecosystem
The National Chambal Sanctuary is situated along the Chambal River at the confluence of the Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh regions. This sanctuary is home to a number of endangered species such as the critically endangered gharial, the red-crowned roof turtle, and the endangered Ganges river dolphin. This sanctuary adds to the importance of the conservation efforts surrounding the Chambal River.
